OPT and STEM OPT: the F-1 work guide

LiveRec EditorialUpdated

US federal rules as of October 30, 2026. Sources re-checked against official pages on October 30, 2026. Where a figure could not be confirmed, this page links the official source instead of stating it.

This OPT and STEM OPT guide covers the basics. Optional Practical Training (OPT) lets F-1 students work in a job directly related to their major, for up to 12 months in total, per USCIS. A STEM degree can add a 24-month extension. You file for OPT yourself, with your school's Designated School Official (DSO). Your DSO is the right person to confirm your case.

At a glance

  • OPT: up to 12 months; you file Form I-765.
  • STEM OPT: 24 more months for eligible STEM degrees and E-Verify employers.
  • Unemployment limit: 90 days on OPT; 150 days total with the STEM extension.
  • You cannot start OPT work until you have your EAD card.

Who qualifies?

OPT: F-1 students. Pre-completion OPT is available after one full academic year; post-completion OPT starts after you finish. STEM OPT: students on post-completion OPT with a bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree in a field on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List, working for an employer enrolled in E-Verify.

What are the steps for post-completion OPT?

  1. Ask your DSO to recommend OPT; the DSO endorses your Form I-20 and updates SEVIS.
  2. File Form I-765 within 30 days of the DSO's entry. You may apply up to 90 days before you finish your program and no later than 60 days after.
  3. Wait for your EAD. You may not begin until you have it.
  4. Work in a job related to your major, at least 20 hours a week.
  5. Report changes of name, address or employment to your DSO.

What are the steps for STEM OPT?

  1. Confirm your degree is on the STEM list and your employer is in E-Verify.
  2. Complete Form I-983, the training plan, with your employer.
  3. Get the DSO's recommendation.
  4. File Form I-765 up to 90 days before your OPT expires and within 60 days of the recommendation. On-time filing can extend your work authorisation for 180 days while pending.
  5. Report employment changes to your DSO within 10 days and confirm details every 6 months.

What comes after OPT?

Many workers move to H-1B. If an employer files a cap-subject H-1B for you, the cap-gap rule can automatically extend F-1 status and OPT work authorisation until April 1 of the fiscal year, if filing conditions are met. See F-1 to H-1B.

What does it cost?

LiveRec quotes no amounts. See the USCIS fee schedule. (checked 2026-10-30)

FAQ

Is OPT the same as CPT? No. See CPT vs OPT.

How many days can I be unemployed? See OPT unemployment days.

Which employers can hire me on STEM OPT? Only E-Verify employers. See STEM OPT employers.

Next step: Find roles tagged F-1 OPT or STEM OPT.

Sources

This is general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules change and your situation may differ. Consult a licensed attorney or qualified adviser.